NBA and NBPA Donate $1M to Hurricane Sandy Relief

As the post-Hurricane Sandy rebuilding efforts get underway along the East Coast, the National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Players Association have announced a $1 million commitment to the relief.

According to a press release, the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, New York Cares and Jersey Cares, along with a number of other organizations, will receive the funds to assist victims, many of whom have been without hot water and electricity since Monday. "Many homes and lives were devastated by Hurricane Sandy and our thoughts, abiding concerns and hopes are with all those affected," said NBA Commissioner David Stern. "The NBA, the NBPA, our teams and players are partnering with the Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations to support the relief efforts to help families and communities recover."

In addition, the league will encourage NBA fans to donate to the Red Cross by airing several "in-game messages" during upcoming events.

The NBA's announcement comes one day after NBC Universal announced its networks would air a one-hour star-studded telethon tonight at 8 p.m. Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together will showcase performances from Christina Aguilera, Bruce Springsteen and more. Disney also made headlines this week by committing $2 million to hurricane relief efforts.

President Obama toured the devastated region Wednesday and pledged federal resources to help Sandy victims. “We are here for you, and we will not forget,” President Obama. “We will follow up to make sure that you get all the help that you need until you rebuild.”